Jauch said he declined the offer due to ARD’s far-reaching restrictions, including the pubcaster’s demand for complete journalistic exclusivity, which would have barred Jauch from taking other gigs at rival channels.

ARD also wanted the popular Jauch to host a second show at the pubcaster, but Jauch said he had declined to discuss any other programs beyond Christiansen’s Sunday night talkshow. She’s ankling ARD to focus on her “Global Players” skein on CNBC.

The Jauch deal had raised concern at ARD due to the celebrity journalist’s longstanding relationship with RTL, as well as his extensive TV advertising work.

Jauch remains active at RTL, where his amiable personality and dry wit have made him a valuable asset and helped keep “Millionaire” a ratings hit. He also presents RTL’s weekly “Stern TV” newsmagazine show.